menstruation

American  

[men-stroo-ey-shuhn, -strey-] / ˌmɛn struˈeɪ ʃən, -ˈstreɪ- /

noun

1. the periodic discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterus, occurring approximately monthly from puberty to menopause in nonpregnant women and females of other primate species.

2. the period of menstruating.

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menstruation British  

/ ˈmɛnstrʊəs, ˌmɛnstrʊˈeɪʃən /

noun

1. Nontechnical name: period.  Also called: menses.  the approximately monthly discharge of blood and cellular debris from the uterus by nonpregnant women from puberty to the menopause

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menstruation Scientific  

/ mĕn′stro̅o̅-ā′shən /

1. The monthly flow of blood from the uterus beginning at puberty in girls and other female primates.

2. Also called menses

3. See also menstrual cycle

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menstruation Cultural  

1. The periodic discharge of the blood-enriched lining of the uterus through the vagina. Menstruation marks the end of one menstrual cycle and the beginning of another.

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Other Word Forms

• menstruous adjective

Etymology

Origin of menstruation

First recorded in 1770–80; menstruate + -ion

Example Sentences

Earlier this month, Florida's state legislature introduced a new bill that may limit discussion of menstruation before sixth grade.

From BBC

At the committee meeting, Gantt asked whether teachers could face punishment if they discuss menstruation with younger students.

From Seattle Times

A Florida Republican admitted that his bill would ban young girls from discussing menstruation with school officials but claimed it wasn't the "intent" of his legislation.

From Salon

But the film is not actually about menstruation, it’s about emergence — young woman from child, individual from family, identity from relegation.

From Los Angeles Times

On one overly simplistic level, “Turning Red” evokes and gives new meaning to the once-widespread sexist sobriquet for menstruation: the Curse.

From Washington Post